According to Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple trustee and information team coordinator Datuk N. Suresh Kumar, over 1.75 million people flocked to Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur for Thaipusam on Wednesday and Thursday.
The crowd began to gather early in the morning at the entrance of Batu Caves, with the kavadi procession extending to the bridge across the Batu Caves KTM railway station. Urumi melam drum beats created a lively and festive atmosphere as the kavadi bearers made their way into the temple.
As the day progressed, the heat intensified, causing sweat to glisten off the shoulders of kavadi bearers. Despite the challenging conditions, they were supported by a team who provided water and rest breaks along the way.
By 11am, the crowds leading up to the Batu Caves staircase had thickened, painting the stairways in bright yellow. At least ten kavadi bearers stood in line to proceed up the stairs, while eight were already making their way up.
Among the throngs of visitors were tourists who had come to witness the lively Thaipusam festival. As noon approached, the crowds began to lessen and the stairway became less packed. The number of kavadi bearers also reduced, but many devotees persevered barefooted on the burning tarmac for their pilgrimage.
The heat of the day did not deter the devotees, and the crowd was expected to grow later in the day, particularly after 4pm.
